Holistic means looking at the whole picture rather than just masking symptoms with one solution. Supplements fit into that picture, but they're not the entire strategy.
What holistic arthritis care actually involves
1. Weight management often makes the biggest single difference - every extra kilogram puts roughly four times that force through joints during movement.
2. Controlled exercise keeps muscles strong without overloading sore joints, whilst physiotherapy and hydrotherapy build strength and range of motion.
3. Diet quality affects inflammation levels.
4. Supplements provide building blocks for cartilage repair and help manage inflammatory processes.
5. Pain medication (when needed) keeps dogs comfortable enough to stay active, which prevents muscle wasting.
These elements are designed to all work cohesively together. A dog given supplements but allowed to remain overweight will show minimal improvement, and a dog on pain medication alone may feel better short-term but excessive weight will continue the damage on their joints.
Where supplements fit into the plan
Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s support the body's natural repair processes and help manage inflammation (1). They work best when started early and used consistently as part of a broader care plan. They're not medicine - they don't block pain signals or stop inflammation immediately - but they may help slow progression over months of regular use.
Genuine holistic care acknowledges that arthritis is progressive and requires multiple approaches working together, not a single magic bullet.
References
Bhathal A, Spryszak M, Louizos C, Frankel G. Glucosamine and chondroitin use in canines for osteoarthritis: A review. Open Vet J. 2017;7(1):36-49. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5356289/
This content is for general information only and does not replace veterinary advice. Supplements and nutritional products are not licensed veterinary medicines. Always speak to your vet before making changes to your dog’s diet, supplements, or care routine.
